Mediaweek contributing editor and Birdman in the Bistro columnist Greg “Sparrow” Graham takes his monthly tour around the best dining spots for all budgets. This month has a distinctly Italian flavour.
On the Corporate AMEX account for a VIP client:
Nel – Surry Hills
WOW, this really was an incredible food adventure/experience with storytelling at the heart and brilliant taste sensations. Such a unique dining experience that was quite magical with a great Disney concept that took me back to my childhood in a good way and tantalised my taste buds. Incredible food with an outstanding experience most appropriate for a special occasion or celebration.
Fratelli Paradiso – Darlinghurst
I am transported to Italy and this favourite dining place just delivers every time. Brilliant authentic food with great service and cool vibe.
The dish you must try: the spaghettini with roast scampi, cherry tomatoes, Napoli & bisque is incredible. The scampi flavour of the pasta was super delicious.
Fun team lunch
Bastardo – CBD
Another favorite Italian place along with its sister restaurant in Surry Hills. Once again covers all the classics and just always produces fresh produce with yummy flavors. Sometimes the simple fresh ingredients and great produce are the best.
The dish you must try: Wagyu meatballs in red sauce with parmigiano & crispy sage.
Ventuno – Walsh Bay
I did not realise this month that I am actually on an Italian food journey with yet another Italian place, this time enhanced with a brilliant water view of Walsh Bay. I am a creature of habit and bring on the calamari fritti, handmade burrata with split Queensland prawns, and a pizza.
The dish you must try: Slow-cooked beef ragu, parsley, and pecorino.
Brekkie Favorites
Concrete Jungle – Chippendale
A cool place with some delicious insta worthy food and fresh juices plus great coffee. My favorite dish since opening is still the yuzu ricotta hot cake that takes 15 minutes to cook and is worth every minute. Topped with fresh berries, maple mascarpone & maple syrup!
Genovese Coffee House – Alexandria
A brilliant location for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Outstanding coffee with a funky warehouse vibe that delivers delicious fresh food all day.
Mangkon Rd – China & Thai town Haymarket
A buzzy authentic combination of Chinese and Thai food from 2 incredible chefs ex Long Chim this place is a real find and delivers outstanding food with great value. I needed a glass of cold milk after a few hot chili dishes however the crab curry and crab fried rice were absolutely delicious.
The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre – Marrickville
I am such a fan of the Lucky Prawn Chinese Australian bistro which is so retro and fun. Yummy Chinese meals straight from the seventies with a standout prawn toast, honey king prawns, plus a delicious sweet and sour pork.
Pick of the month: Flavorsome spaghettini with roast scampi, cherry tomatoes, Napoli & bisque is a standout at Fratelli Paradiso.